Irish Beef Stew and Mashed Potatoes

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I found this delicious stew on Food Gawker and thought it looked particularly delicious.  Serving stew over mashed potatoes is a great idea!  It was delicious!  I altered the recipe to make it in the crock pot and save time.  I prepped everything the night before and simply put the crock pot on a timer the next day.  I will definitely be making this again.  I hope you enjoy!

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb. stew meat
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves, garlic, minced
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp thyme
• 1/4 tsp rosemary 
• 1 large bay leaf
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/3 cup peas
• homemade mashed potatoes

Altered directions for crock-pot: (For original directions, click here)

Prep all vegetables, and place in lined crock pot.  In a large skillet, brown stew meat in olive oil until browned on all sides, about 4 minutes.  Spoon meat and drippings into crock pot.  Add garlic and remaining spices, mixing well.  Pour beef broth over meat and vegetables.  Cook on LOW 4-6 hours.  In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and flour until smooth and incorporated.  Stir butter mixture into the stew with the frozen peas.  Once gravy thickens slightly, it's done.  Serve over mashed potatoes.